What a boost for DR Congo: "Lumumba fan" has arrived in Mexico
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 23.06.26. | 14:05
The Leopards will have special support in their second group-stage game against Colombia (05.00)
In their World Cup opener - their first appearance at the tournament in 52 years - DR Congo held mighty Portugal to a 1-1 draw. The Leopards fully neutralized Cristiano Ronaldo and the Navigators' star-studded midfield (Joao Neves, Vitinha, Bruno Fernandes), and deservedly pulled off one of the biggest upsets in the tournament so far.
However, if they want to make another step forward and advance to the knockout phase, Sebastien Desabre's men will have to build on their good performance from six days ago, tonight against Colombia (05.00).
Still, their chances against the South Americans may be boosted not only by their high confidence and excellent form but also by the extra support that has recently arrived in Mexico.
The Congolese won't get any help on the pitch, but they'll see a familiar face in the stands, as their lucky charm, Michel Kuka Mboladinga, aka Lumumba Vea (meaning "Lumumba lives")or simply the "Lumumba fan", will be at Estadio Akron in Zapopan to support them.
🚨 LUMUMBA 🇨🇩, THE LEGENDARY SUPPORTER OF THE DRC, HAS ARRIVED IN MEXICO! 🤩
— GoalAlert HQ ⚽️ 🥅 (@GoalAlertHQ) June 22, 2026
He will be in the stands at the Guadalajara stadium on Wednesday to cheer on his national team against Colombia.
pic.twitter.com/hbmW9Q7Wwc pic.twitter.com/qSwmuiDWs8
He rose to prominence during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he stood motionless in each of the Leopards' games, dressed like the DR Congo's first prime minister, Patrice Lumumba, assassinated in 1961, whom he pays tribute to.
Beyond gaining worldwide recognition, Lumumba Vea has grown close to the players, who urged their country's president to bring the fan with them to the World Cup.
He wasn't in Houston six days ago, as he had to complete the isolation period due to the Ebola outbreak in his homeland, and fulfill health and immigration requirements, but tonight, he'll take his place and once again steal the spotlight simply by standing still.
We’ll see if he can prove to be the Leopards’ talisman.
WORLD CUP - GROUP STAGE (ROUND 2)
Group K
Tuesday 23.06
20.00: (1.22) Portugal (6.50) Uzbekistan (13.0)
Wednesday 24.06.
05.00: (1.50) Colombia (3.90) DR Congo (7.75)
***odds are subject to change***